BOISE, Idaho — Authorities have revealed that the driver involved in the tragic crash that took place near Yellowstone National Park earlier this month had a blood alcohol content significantly above the legal limit. The incident resulted in the deaths of seven people. The Idaho State Police announced on Friday that the driver, previously identified as Isaih Moreno from Humble, Texas, had a blood alcohol level of 0.20. This is more than double the legal limit of 0.08.
Capt. Chris Weadick of the police department emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “This tragedy should be a wake-up call. No one plans to cause a crash or take a life when they get behind the wheel, but choices have consequences.”
The investigation into the May 1 accident concluded that Moreno’s Dodge Ram veered across the center line, striking a Mercedes van that carried 14 passengers. The intense collision led to both vehicles being engulfed in flames.
The crash claimed the lives of Moreno and six others, who were residents from China, Italy, and California. Several survivors were transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment.
The accident occurred on a highway south of West Yellowstone, Montana—a vital road used as a connection between Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons. This route becomes available during the spring season as an alternative before the main north-south route is cleared and the park is fully accessible for summer tourism.
Yellowstone National Park, a major attraction in the United States, welcomes millions of visitors each year, making routes like these crucial for travel and exploration.